Its been a while since I’ve done a rant. But recently, our soon to be gone Governor Scott Walker had his finger pointing mess button about the recent election he lost to the next Governor to be Tony Evers. In a recent Facebook Post, the City of Milwaukee Election Executive Director, Neil Albrecht has written a post in the response of the criticism. He writes:

Office of Governor Scott Walker

Dear Governor Walker,

In a recent commentary to the media, you identified that delays with Milwaukee’s processing of 47,000 absentee ballots on Election Day came down to “incompetence as opposed to corruption.”

To make an allegation that Milwaukee’s administration of the midterm election lacked competence is unsubstantiated, reckless and damaging to the public’s confidence in the integrity of elections. Your claim is particularly egregious given your and the Wisconsin legislature’s inaction to proactively address the issue that led to the delay in processing ballots.

Every step of Milwaukee’s Election Day processing of 47,000 absentee ballots was compliant with state law and election rules related to election administration. Additionally, observers from your campaign, your political party, the public, and the media were present. At no point did any person issue a challenge to what was occurring. Rather, observers expressed appreciation that the nearly 200 people that supported the City’s central counting of absentee ballot operations were well-trained and operated with efficiency, fairness, and transparency.

The two-hour delay we experienced in processing those ballots was attributable to a number of factors, which included the volume of ballots and our need to reconstruct ballots emailed to military and overseas voters, as well as ballots with voter errors or those that had been damaged in the mail or through the sealing of the absentee envelope. The need to reconstruct a ballot is in no way an indication of incompetence but rather a process that occurs in every municipality in this state during the tallying of absentee ballots.

The public’s interest in early voting in Milwaukee, in Wisconsin, and nationally, has increased exponentially with each general election. The City, in partnership with other municipal and county clerks, has attempted to work with lawmakers to come up with a solution to the volume of absentee ballots that must now be processed on Election Day. Numerous opportunities to address this issue, such as establishing true early voting in Wisconsin or allowing clerks to begin opening absentee envelopes the day before the election, were presented to the legislature and largely ignored.

The blame for Wisconsin’s myriad antiquated election laws that fail to address emerging election issues and lead to delays in the publication of election results rests with you and the legislature, not with the City of Milwaukee Election Commission. Further, I believe your mischaracterization of what occurred warrants an apology to the City’s nearly 2,500 election workers that approached their assignments with a profound sense of civic duty, responsibility, and integrity.

Sincerely,

Neil AlbrechtExecutive Director

What you just saw was the official statement from the Executive Director himself. Not some fake news out the conservative wackos that want the plagues of America. When I read this post online, I had to agree with all of what Neil said. And for a very good reason. Now many calling this to say oh, the governor called out all the poll workers whom he blamed for the L on election night. Well, guess what, Walker can kick rocks. He can kick rocks all through the last day of his Governor reign because he had to realize and this goes for every candidate on the ticket that EVERY VOTE, EVERY VOTE MUST BE COUNTED! From the first to the last. I like many others who had to stay up until 1:30am to see the ballots count actually counted. No, I was not at the Election Commissioners Headquarters to see in person, but yes like many of you reading this, I had to see it on live TV. And yet, the results were exactly it should be FAIR. I mean does the thing about making sure Every Vote Counts does ring a bell? Is this what we want? That is the point in asking.

Also, for all the idiotic yahoos that they claim to know about election inspecting, you don’t know squat. You don’t! All you know is the poll workers that you see at the sites with the name badges and handing out ballots to the registered voters. And if those who aren’t registered, are sent to the registration table in which you see also those who have on Badges on. Even those who are Chief Inspectors. Same thing. What many don’t understand is that we Poll Workers work hard for one stinking day out of OUR Schedules of Families, Employment, College Classes, Volunteering and all just to HELP YOU! Many of us are retirees, students, workers who are in between jobs, and other occupations and organizations. All walks of life! And for all of you who somewhat know what it’s like and yet complain, you can all shut your mouths! You don’t know the training, the will to work, the ability and also you don’t know what goes on in the training that many have to be retooled EVERY TWO YEARS of making sure that we get the objectives right. Every single time when I step into a polling place, I come there to do a job. Plain and simple. A job to make sure that many are registered, or wanting to be registered so they can take care of business and go home. We go through about 2 hours of training each time before an election and we spent time away just to read over manuals that we are given. And of course, we ask questions to those in charge of the classroom because we want to be straight on the information that is given. And of course, no matter where we get sent to, either a firehouse, a school or whatever, we have to keep in mind that yes we have to work hard! And we’re doing this FOR YOU! What does it mean to be a poll worker? What does it mean to help officiate a polling site and expecting a full turnout or a small turnout? What does it mean to do this? For you idiots that are mindless, or those so-called politically correct, let me tell you. And don’t criticize. Don’t you dare do it! If you know the Election Inspectors game, to me, it’s like any other job out there. It takes dedication, works ethical solutions, and overall passion for being to assist those in the community. This is a community job that only happens ONE DAY our of our leisure. I’m not speaking of many who are poll workers, but I’m speaking for myself as a poll worker. As of November of 2018, 12 years. 12 years of being out and helping those that want to be assisted to get their voices heard! 12 years of dedicating my time to help my community. 12 years of bringing my passion and heart just to get out and do work for others in this ministry. Oh, yes I did say ministry. Can any of you punk haters say that? Can any of the so-called high and mighty politically do this and not be so hypercritical or conscious? I dare ANYONE on the outside looking in: I dare anyone (and I MEAN ANYONE) to STEP UP and try it. Prove it. Back it up.

Prove me wrong that you can do this!

CALLOUT: And if you can’t back it up, that makes you a coward. Yes. I just went there.

Yeah, I already know that this Poll Working gig or Election Inspectors job is not an everyday thing. I wish it were. If it were, it should be in mini offices every single day that would guarantee more job growth and more education of being engaged in the process of VOTING! Oh yes, this message is for all the poll workers who grind hard every day and for those who didn’t have a voice. I know that the election commission had their say as indicated, but here on this blog page, this is my turn to say something! Just for the record, this commentary here is not sanctioned by the City of Milwaukee’s Election Commission. These are my own words.

Usually, this might be long forgotten about. But unfortunately its only the beginning that yes, the ISH just got real. This ISH of showing the hypocrisy of Walker, and others like him that crumble on the City of Milwaukee in a sense is no surprise. And a direct slap in the face!

So yes, I should be fired up and ready to work. But be careful who and what you ignite. Chances are, the burning feeling may not be so mutual.

For all of the Election Inspectors in the game; I included; no matter if you’re working the polls for the first time, the second time, 5th time, 8th time, 12th year, 20th year, or maybe to 50 years working. No matter if you’re a chief inspector that has been there and done it so many times. Or whatever role we do every time during these election cycles. Even if we do Part Time or Full Time. OR BOTH. Remember this: we do this for a reason! We should be praised for our work and appreciated that we dedicate ourselves to this cause. It’s not easy at times, but at least we try each time. No matter who or what arises in between. And I don’t go around to other companies or jobs and talk smack about them. Mainly because I don’t know that job experience of what everyone does. I don’t!

Oh yes, the haters just don’t understand. They don’t. Even if it’s the soon to be gone, Governor Scott Walker. After all, most of this in my view was his idea and his fault due to his dumb policies.

Mark that date down that many in Black Milwaukee will not be happy to hear. The reign of WNOV’s The Forum segment has surprisingly closed. Due to this decision was not “mutual” or irreconcilable differences. By now at this hour, you’re just listening to the hours between 9am – 12pm and no Sherwin Hughes on the microphone. No Forum. No more “Bye Felicia Awards”(the awards that got you locked out with bad remarks) and no voice here. But the voices are still out for more.

What will actually be a factor to enhance the voice of concern to the African-American Audience of Milwaukee? And second, if those had been following The Forum for all or most of the six years, is the due season coming for the next level of hosts? When I was listening to the radio today this morning, nothing but music in the 9-12 hour slot. Nothing but R&B, Rap & Hip Hop. Nothing but that. Of course the show at the previous hour was on during the slot but many like me, didn’t hear that voice to talk about the issues and happenings of the day. Yeah, that was missed! Was there friction between the management and host? What really let to the dismissal? Most of us reviewed the comments of the listeners online via Facebook when the story broke, and many found it like: “WNOV made a huge mistake of this decision”. “That’s jacked up”, or “Why during the midterm election season going on” (shades of 1290 WMCS being cancelled), and many also did appreciate the value of the host for his political viewpoints and raised an idea to get back in the game by using a different platform like podcasting .

I will admit, the Monday of today is not the same as last week. It’s a different week. And I don’t know how the radio works in terms of broadcasting or getting your messages out to the mass folks that are listening with management and experience. Hopefully, we’ll get to the real bottom of this and actually get a real conclusion beyond the “irreconcilable differences” in Milwaukee Radio. Not trying to speculate anything, but many may ask, why this dismissal was necessary in 2018?

“The Forum” ran for 6 years. And yes in those six years, we heard many topics. And to me, it mattered to Black Milwaukee and the listeners alike because we needed a fresh prospective from an angle that was never given before. I think also we needed a fresh prospective from the Generation X point of view because its clearly thought that the older generation was listening and learning. Many look at Generation X being all slackers and can’t do nothing right. Well that’s a load of BS. That’s not in part of the truth. And I’m part of the 1965-1981 crowd of the generation. And another reason why it mattered to the black community and it’s an obvious one, we need to keep and maintain our issues, our conversations, happenings, health stories, finance, lifestyle, creations, education and dozens of topics at hand everyday! Even yes addressing crime and racism. The three hours were just a spoke on the wheel, but the reality is that must keep the voice of the community on point and visible all the time. And that is why partially, the voices in the black community must be more than just one. It must be many!

What were my top moments in The Forum’s history? Let’s go into that right now. But first, I’ll dig into the crates of my blog stories that can support the story.

Going back to 2013, I remember a segment about opinion polls:

Now I’ve been heard about the recent Marquette Poll, or the Raussman Poll. This percentage of citizens this and this percentage of that. And mostly I’ve heard the question on black radio stations like WNOV, and asking, “Were you polled?” or “I was never polled on this topic.” Most of the folks in my opinion who do these polling statues, are white. Think about it. I’m just saying. And check this, how many of these polls in Wisconsin were done by African-Americans? No matter which side they see? AGAIN: there is 6% of African-Decent living in the Badger State.

2014: During Black History Month….

I was listening to WNOV today. Yes The Forum with Sherwin Hughes. He had on a guest of the name Oshi Adelabu who really dropped serious knowledge on why Black History Month is around. He also dropped real serious topics about us black folks don’t really know our history as much as the other ethnics. If anyone in America, or in Milwaukee had a chance to listen to him, you probably got lectured on a different level. And he did address the concerns of those who are our children who don’t care about the history. And the reason being, partially many of the adults don’t really go into the deep reason of the hidden stories of lynchings, hangings, inside discrimination, the first Egyptians being black (in which they were) or telling blacks not to go into the doors that whites used to go. I think our generation (the lower half of Gen X, Y, Millennials) were and are shielded from the extreme part of it and many of us don’t care. It’s sad to say but it is. Want a prime example: go to the Instagram and look at those bogus pics like, “Pookie and them were the first blacks to get turnt up in the club drinking Hennessy.” You mean to tell me that we would poke fun at those who have blazed trails, set new foundations, and declare holy hell on those who feel that this occasion that was started in 1926 is a joke of a failure? No its not a joke of failure because those who made the joke or the bad assumptions felt cheated because we haven’t learned the deep gist of the occasions. Of what it supposed to be. Yet, many years ago, I didn’t understood a lick of why black history month exists. But as I grew older and to appreciate the value of our summarizing our ancestors, and what is going on now, it has become to me a staple. More like a centerpiece celebration. I mean “every occasion” has a centerpiece.

2013 when Harley-Davidson was 110 years old. And the black community was almost left out, and yes even the late Polly Williams weighed in:

Recently up until the days and weeks before the start of the celebration, there was almost a concern. A concern about the African-American Community being left out of the celebration with nothing on the program. I read the Harley Bikers Guide courtesy of Visit Milwaukee, in which almost every organization or company had sponsored the event, but I didn’t see ANY representation of the African American Community that either was on the cover, nor in the ads! Come on, now! Just a thought that African-Americans do ride motorcycles, and are apart of the biker culture and network. But until recently, the organization of the MLK Street Jam folks have added a line up, vendors, and live music for the 110th. Originally, “The MLK Street Jam BBQ” was the name in the Black Community and yes 5 years ago, it was a listing among the Brady Street, and other Street Jams for the Harley Riders and non riders alike. I was listening to WNOV last Monday about the concern, and about the concern of the black bikers not having a connection for the 110th in which the black community, I think I may have heard that, in means of where to go, and having black businesses to engage the support of the event. Personally that almost hurt. Did some businesses or connections from H-D or Visit Milwaukee, ever talked to the Milwaukee black community, or those along MLK Jr. Drive about hosting a spot for the 110th Anniversary ahead of time? Did anyone who is African-American that works for H-D in the Greater Milwaukee Area asked those in the black community or inform of the 110th events beforehand? That is a question I want to know. Maybe Harley-Davidson needs to have Inner City Sessions on jobs, or outreach. Or have a parade to route along MLK Drive or Sherman Boulevard to Milwaukee’s Washington Park for a fellowship. I heard that portion on WNOV.

Just to add: in the days after this segment, Jammin’ 98.3 held a Iron Elite Black Biker Jam at Uihlein Soccer Park in which displayed the different motorcycles, vendors, The Kevin Hayden Trio Band and several famous faces like Willie G, whom we all know is a descendant of the company. And even film director, F. Gary Gray. Whom also did a special documentary of the Iron Elite and the history of the African American Harley-Davidson Riders. Food for thought. And no, it was not racist.

Elsa’s on the Park and the issue of racism and this was my “introduction” to The Forum in it’s inaugural year of 2012:

This story has been non-stop. Even on the radio has been non stop. This morning, I was listening to WNOV 860AM, and there is a new segment called “The Forum” with radio host Sherwin Hughes. By the way the radio station is now online at http://www.wnov860am.com; and as well on the radio. Plus you can listen to the station via the Apps on Android, Blackberry, and the I-Phone. “The Forum” is a hard hitting segment in which the topics of political, civil and many other issues that seem and gain the thought in the African-American Community; that will you will not find like on WTMJ or any other station that most don’t address issues like this in Milwaukee. Sherwin voiced his liberties in terms of the incident at Elsa’s as of what happened. Apparently, the information given was from of his close friends in which was the victim of the incident that took place. Sherwin and those like him will never set foot in a place that doesn’t feel “welcomed”. But he also said that there might be folks who would still support the establishment and spend their money! Hold up. Why would ANYONE would continue to support any organization or company that has or had bad experiences that dealt with racial problems concerning African-Americans and not everyone else? It’s the same thing with Milwaukee’s clubs on the East Side. Some of them had negative experiences with black folks too, as in terms of not letting them in. If I was a customer per say, and this went down, GOODBYE! No more Elsa’s. Go somewhere that can be appreciative to me,and fair quality of service. Like Black-Owned Businesses. And for the record, I have some members in my family that do own, operate, coordinate, and direct their own businesses. And they’re African-American living in Milwaukee. Yes, I know that this experience is well “sensitive” to most, BUT it is a concern that must be addressed. Everyone around the country that knows about Milwaukee’s Segregation problems, I can them saying, “you need to talk!” NO MORE HIDING! It’s either “put up or shut up.” We have too. Matter of fact, we Americans have to address this issue of race as well instead of running away to other cities and countries just to get away. I’m just saying.

2016: The year we lost Eric Von.

When the day of September 8th came when Eric’s death came up: it was like a shock. I kept reading my Facebook Newsfeeds to see if this was real. When you get those notices of a well known figure around your community that died, usually it’s a hoax via Social Media. BUT……this was no hoax. Eric Von really did die at his home in the Sherman Park Community. The next day, WNOV was really focused on him, his life and work. I was listening to his segment and The Forum and let me tell you: it was sad, but it was a time to celebrate him of what he brought to us over the years. No matter if it was his days at 1290, or WNOV. The callers kept calling the station to offer their condolences and sympathies. Even former 1290 Personalities that called in to do the same thing. And those that used to rival WNOV were also called in to equal the messages of those offering condolences. I will admit, it will be hard to replace him on the radio. But I think that with all of this, the WNOV Family; no, the remaining WNOV family will be fine. It will take time, but still will be fine.

Also with that, there was radio broadcast about Sherwin commentating about his then-health problems in terms of him going under an examination. Which also led him to get an colonoscopy. He was very expressive about his health in terms of what he had and was able to still do the show. In the lessons followed, yes he still addressed the medical issues that many of us in the African-American Community don’t go to the doctor. Specifically us African-American Men! This was an eye-opener and yes, I’ve been woken as well. It’s a life saving issue that many must not cover up nor ignore! Speaking of colonoscopies, the age limit for that, is still in the 50’s, but there might an age reduction to about 45 and up because now many of the those in that age range may have to get checked for that detection! Either way: GET SCREENED! I would say this to the men, but women you too! Of course you already know that.

Also in 2016: The aftermath of picking 45 and questioning whom to look next.

Sixth: I was listening to WNOV this morning. And there was question about who will represent the Black Community in the Trump era? Black folks: Look to our Senators, Our Congressmen or Congresswomen. Our Alderpersons, regional leaders whom are black. Here in Milwaukee: We got just to name a few, Senator Lena Taylor, State Representative Jason Fields, Congresswomen Gwen Moore, Alderwomen Chantia Lewis and Milele Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Khalif Rainey, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell Stamper II, County Supervisors: Marcelia Nicholson, Supreme Moore Omokunde, and Willie Johnson Jr. And no, I’m not putting Sheriff David Clarke on the list because I think now we in the community are waking up with the real truth about him. He’s not what he says he is. He don’t qualify. Other black leaders like Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, Shelia Jackson-Lee, and other well known black officials must not be overlooked either that can be viable to represent.

Let’s see, another highlight I remember: Building an African American Community Center in 2013.

Let me go in on my home of Milwaukee for a bit. I have to blog about this story that is very dear and I think important to think about for the African Americans for our city. Recently this week, I was paying attention to Milwaukee Black Radio, namely WNOV about a comment of a potential (idea-wise) African Community Center. As many of us Black Milwaukeeans know it was supposed to be built near the Milwaukee County Transit System Headquarters, which is near 17th and Fond Du Lac, years back. But however it never got built. Many were and still asking why.

Just yesterday and today, I listened to WNOV’s Sherwin Hughes, with guests Mikel Holt, former Alderman Fred Gordon, and Troy Shaw, and in a twist of that thought: It had something to do with that project and the Italian Community Center. From the commentary, one of the then-Milwaukee Alderman’s Mike D’Amato had a problem with that. In regarding that project of the African Community Center, that would give dilemmas for the Italian Community Center. Say what?!!! When you really think about that, Milwaukee has Community centers of the Irish, German, Mexican, LGBT, Spanish, Asian and Italian. But not a African Community Center, based on this absent minded thought? Really?

Now I know that others who are non-black and reading this blog and from the Greater Milwaukee Area are probably might come out and say, “Oh that racist! Why does he have to write that? We are all Americans. We should be equals.” Oh Shut up! I’ve heard that so many times. I get it. Remember when I said that I’m embracing my African-American side, while expressing my slice of Americana? This is what I’m doing right now. I’m expressing my freedom of expression as an American, while honoring my African-American, or American of African decent laurels. Period. If WNOV’s “The Forum” can do it, so can I.

Just to clarify currently that the site of the former America’s Black Holocaust Museum that the late James Cameron founded was torn down, but as of this year on Juneteenth Day, it was resurrected in a new Museum with Apartments. It’s called “The Griot” and it sits near the corner of 4th and North Avenue in the same area. Hopefully this can be a new start of getting OUR African Community Center started up to educate, entertain, inform and summarize the news and happenings in the Black Community.

From last August: Confederate Monuments in Wisconsin.

Most recently, I was tuning into a radio broadcast of WNOV, yes the black station in Milwaukee. And it featured a story that had a Confederate monument in my homestate of Wisconsin. I’m not joking. You might be saying to yourself: WAIT, WHAT? Wisconsin had a Confederate Monument?! Really? Here is the featured story, from June of 2015. As we all know that Wisconsin was a Union state during the Civil War. Check out the site called “Iron Brigader”, or do a search called, “The Confederate Cemetery in Madison, Wisconsin”. I’m reading this article for the first time. And the thing that struck me out of the story was the fact that I had no idea, no iota that this existed in the state of Wisconsin. Never in my near 41 years living in the Badger State I knew that. The story summarizes that the use of the Cemetery was the burial place of the Union Soldiers that died in the Civil War. It also summarized that part of the Cemetery was known as “Confederate Rest” in which that 140 of the Confederate Soldiers whom were POW’s was buried in the area. Before that, majority of the Confederate Soldiers (approx. 1,000 plus) that were captured, were sent to Prairie Du Chien, and then to Madison. Many of them also were diagnosed with Measels, Mumps, Pneumonia, not enough food or medicine for the prisoners and many died because of it. Also some the prisoners were transported to Camp Randall (the same Camp Randall where the Wisconsin Badgers play on the UW-Madison Campus) for medications and supplies to receive treatments. Additional before Camp Randall was the house that many of the Big 10 feared, it was a training ground for the then Union Volunteer Soldiers during the Civil War. Now you wonder why Camp Randall Stadium is a “battleground” on Saturday afternoons! The story also summarized about a woman, Alice Waterman who was southern born that moved to the city to care for the Cemetery that housed the dead soldiers. She put her own financial needs to care for the graves and markers to maintain them. She is also buried at the cemetery towards the front of the site.

And to add, like other Confederate Monuments in America, that too was removed.

2014 when many got so “sensitive” about Black Milwaukee Radio. Like really?!

And check this: even Sheriff David Clarke had to call in and say “It’s David Clarke. Tone it down.”

I want to make a comment about this. I want to tell all the folks, the hyper sensitive folks something. Just my opinion: THIS WILL NOT BE TONED DOWN ON ANY FRONTS! NONE! Many times I said that Milwaukee is the most segregated city in America. That is a fact. Even if those live in the North Shore area gonna learn today. Obviously, most are afraid. They are scared. When I listening to the entire 3 hours, Sherwin had made strong references that many agreed about the understanding of black and white citizens. Even a black Vietnam Veteran! Where’s Sheriff Clarke on that? No where. Where are those who had to gall to call the station, after not what they want to hear based on strong and TRUE references? I said this on the MyFoxMilwaukee blogs that many will get mad when the truth comes out. Even if an owner gets all hyped negatively about a McDonald’s harboring Drugs and Mary Jane!

Speaking of Toning Down: Where is the “Toning down” of prevention of drugs in businesses?

Where is the toning down of high unemployment among African Americans IN Milwaukee? WHERE YOU AT CONSERVATIVES?!!!!!!

Where is the toning down of admitting the fact that this region and state is still segregated? And having Transportation issues of getting to the jobs? Hello, folks!

Where is the toning down of preventing teen pregnancy, not being in the poor category IN Milwaukee? EXCUSE ME?!!!!!

Where is the Toning Down of Drugs being going into the suburbs and while many get off easy, but hard in the larger metro areas?

WHERE IS THE TONING DOWN of the so-called others who thought that a school like Malcolm X shouldn’t be an Community Center after it was legally PASSED by MPS?!!

Where is the toning down on the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Comment folks who blast things that they don’t and get a freaking pass? Such as one JSOnline commenter at one time had talked about that an officer should have punched Jeanine Tracy harder while being handcuffed in a squad car!

Where is the toning down on these Conservatives Radio folks like Mark Belling who labeled Derek Williams a thug after being handcuffed in the back of a squad car? Couldn’t breath in all. Neck broken. And died on the scene.

Where is the toning down of the Hilton Garden Inn, and Alderman Bob Bauman, about the accusations of black nightlife like 618 on Water, and many other clubs that mostly cater to African-Americans,and Urban Hip Hop Music?!!! And having those NOT LIVING in Milwaukee had to jump in? UM, EXCUSE ME?!!!

Where is the toning down of the State of Wisconsin that is getting sued by Talgo because of the refusal of the High Speed Rail project, that many of the leeches of the Tea Party Wisconsin based, plus Scott Walker shutting it down? Hmmmmm………don’t see it here!

What’s up with that? Milwaukee County Residents?!!!!! You all getting all hyper sensitive about a black man’s strong truthful reference, and don’t want to admit it. Folks like Sheriff David Clarke needs to understand that he is going to get talked about. Period. I mean, if various folks can talk about Chris Abele, Tom Barrett, Scott Walker, Senator Lena Taylor, or any other official, so Clarke is off the list? REALLY?! But if Sherwin is wrong of what he said about him, maybe the second black Democratic (but mostly REPUBLICAN supportive) Sheriff needs to be a man about it and defend his record!

And what about being “Church Hurt?” From this year in January!

Last week on the first Friday of the year, I listened to WNOV’s The Forum Program. And the full 3 hours of the program was about those who have been “church hurt”, or being hurt by the church. It was based on the article that some folks read (mainly younger black folks) about the reasons why they don’t attend church. And I’ll bet it came from those who haven’t been there. It also featured those whom have had history in the church ranging from bishops, ministers, and members whom have those vivid memories but mostly it was NEGATIVE! As I was listening to the program, it was coming from those who say it was a scam, the black church don’t allow the LGBT no love, and other negative factors. Oh the issue of money was conversed. I want those being effect by this “church hurt” thing to hear me out on this. Yes, there are pastors, bishops, deacons, and many other church leaders that did things negatively on the value of money. Yes, it’s true. BUT: don’t assume that it’s all of the Churches! Not all the churches are about MONEY. Not all of the church are about kicking out the LGBT. Not all the Churches are about the erasing the thought of supporting young folks. Not all churches are about hating on someone who is in need of coming in to keep warm from the freezing cold! Not all CHURCHES are the same! WAKE UP! If that were the case, I wouldn’t be in church now! I’m sorry you’ve been hurt. Church hurt. But many of you members who haven’t been to any the services in a minute, and you’re complaining, why haven’t you come forward? Ok, maybe you have been working. Raising families. Taking care of a senior person. Or sat out and did nothing. And you complain. If you complain and not attended the services, you need to go! If you are on the membership roll that haven’t been at the services, meetings, events, activities or there special outings to support or donate, then you need to retool and revise your membership! Hate to say that.
Don’t always assume that the church is ALL evil. What is evil is being put or driven by those who spoil the bunch. That is EVIL! Hell, I wouldn’t stepped into a 4th Generation family tradition that I wouldn’t be able to work, earn scholarships, utilized groups (both men and women), photograph archives, record sermons and still raised almost 28 years later! That’s right, this June will be my Church Anniversary of coming in as a full member through conformation class. That’s a joy. And that’s positive. And the Church NEEDS MORE POSITIVE OUTLOOKS! Not just hearing the music or the sermons. And also the biggest issue that many have against the church besides the money and pastor, is when we get done hearing the sermons, we go out to eat to Red Lobster or a local restaurant. Church folks got to eat too! There are 168 hours in week. The Average hours on a Sunday morning Worship Service is like what, 2 hours? So in those two hours of Church, we go to the restaurant and chow down for about 1 hour or so. And we go home. BUT THE WORSHIP WORK in the week goes on. It goes on at your job. Your community centers. Your activities of recreation, homes, the elderly, Your Sorority, Fraternity, Veterans Groups, Peace Groups, Activism, Alumni Associations, etc. Even when you help folks to Vote! That is your Worship Work in the continuation of the Church! Think about that. If many more folks in Milwaukee who were listening to that broadcast would actually get it, they would actually get it. I know some understand.
I say this mainly to Milwaukee. After all, it was a Milwaukee Black Radio broadcast of WNOV that commented on this. We know what the host said. We know what the guests said. And we know that. But look here: it’s not perfect. Many of you go to clubs on Saturday Night, partying in all. Being catered. Which is nothing wrong at all. But also, like the church at times, there are members of the clubs whom can be hypocritical of the DJ, the clothes, the set up, the bar, the drinks, the food, the parking, and the security. Just like your jobs, groups and etc. You don’t hear me! We’re trying. We know it’s hard. After all, being a Christian or a every Sunday church person is not just happenstance. It’s a hard job. Period. But with God’s grace, we’re up for the challenge.
Amen.

These are just a sampling of the highlights while listening to the program for those 3 hours. And 6 years. And the things I mentioned here, serves as a lesson to engage and take it out to the world and educate our minds and thoughts about the concerns and joys per se to commence. A lot of this, I do credit “The Forum” for allowing me to express my viewpoints here and summarize them to all of you. Mainly for those whom haven’t been to Milwaukee or have not seen Milwaukee in ages! And to think that, it was not a surprise in coming. And the host has seen this blog before, so I say to that thank you!

However, why I talked about this? It goes all the way back to February 2012, when there was a rally on King Drive in about “We stand for our men for Jobs”. The very same rally that former Wisconsin State Rep Elizabeth Coggs formed. And the guest MC you asked? Homer Blow. He also expressed that morning about that we must continue to tell about what’s going on in Milwaukee. If we take pictures, blog (like I’m doing now) or whatever, this is what we have to do. So I’ve been doing this since 2005 by doing this blogging thing that may not be noticeable. But based on this and the good highlights I’ve written about in the past, my voice along with my brain, is paying attention. If this blog had not existed, I wouldn’t be telling this now. Not about anything that pertains to Milwaukee or Black America. That would be in the interests of the Newspapers or journals that rely on the sources all the time. But what happens when the sources don’t get to the source we want? That is why that blogs like this and many others need to fill in the gaps of what we know to continue the conversation. As I said before, this is not for a job thing, this is a personal thing. And the personal thing to me is to help correct the wrongs that I went through growing up to be added on to the masses of research and homework assignments. And yes, WordPress camps.

The guests over the years comprised of politicians, business owners, activists, educators, historians, young men and women, Gen X’ers, Baby Boomers, Millennials, and organizers all stopped by to lend their viewpoints of the subjects at hand. Even guests like Officer Jack, a former MPD Police Officer that gave the audience about scenarios in regarding police work and also what to do regarding law enforcement and the understanding the law. Former Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Darienne Driver (who recently resigned this year) was on the show usually on the first Fridays of the month that gave us statuses about the conditions and happenings in the Schools. Others from Mary Burke to Lena Taylor, to Gwen Moore, and to Mahlon Mitchell, same thing. Speaking of Mary Burke that many didn’t realized that when she was campaigning for Governor (and later lost to Scott Walker) she appeared on the show more times than any other Republican Representative. Even more than Scott Walker whom have not appeared once. Something should have told you there. And yes, even the former Sheriff David Clarke stopped through as well wearing a Trump Shirt. The callers you asked? They ranged from everyday folks that know the city very well, even a black Marine Corps Veteran that the host ALWAYS acknowledges every time!

So guess what, black people and those others wanting to know? “The Forum” was only the spoke on the wheel. But, there is so much work to be done. Even telling our stories continuously. You will not hear this from WISN 1130 or 620 WTMJ. Or any other progressive format. Nope, not here! Not happening! Oh, by the way: for those of us that couldn’t get past the emptiness of The Forum, the show recorded 832 segments in it’s 1,000+ shows. Check out The Fourm 860’s Website for all the references.

Welcome to the first My Take the New Year. Or it states that many don’t want to begin this in a fashion on TV that dealt with Trauma.

Spolier Alert: Trauma is not new. I’ll clarify on why it is.

Throughout our history growing up in various circumstances, the issue of Trauma really hits us early. No matter if it’s in the family, neighborhoods, churches, jobs, or any other matter of speaking that many already know. Traumatic experiences come in many forms. Many examples and many angles. We all read about them and we all summarize it and usually don’t have answers. We don’t have ideas to convey the solutions at times. But there are some solutions that can cope with the valor of the effects of Trauma. In 2018, my home church had the third installment of Trauma that was about Healing the Family. And one of the speakers, laid in very well detailed information about trauma ranging from Slavery, to family conflicts, and the haunting memories of the pain and suffering about the use of trauma that stays hidden, but the wounds open up years later during adulthood. The speaker said over and over again: “Trauma is not new!” It’s not!

There were several clauses that compelled the issue of trauma ranging from Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome, Racism and Oppression, Stockholm Syndrome Traumatic Bonding, Psycho-Physical Trauma, and Psychological Warfare, just to name a few. And what does this have to do with the black community? Part of this is not new in the black community because many of us know this very well. And it ties into today’s era that many are still scared to talk about. But why???? Is it fate? Is it going to break the family apart forever? Or is it just happenstance? And many wonder why it’s so hard to break that pain of traumatic stress NOW!

Speaking of that, there was a special that was aired on the Lifetime Channel regarding R. Kelly: Surviving R. Kelly. This special aired on three consecutive nights that the women in the special had all their say or commentary about their experiences in regarding R. Kelly. Many have said over and over again that R. Kelly had “sexual advances” towards the young girls over and over many times. And even “marrying and sexual advancing” the late great Aaliyah. Which was a false statement. As I’m watching this, many had to be like why it took this long for the women, who were traumatized by all this pain and suffering had to be succumbed to stay silent and tell their sides of the stories later on as adults? Why do the women who had to sit in front of the camera tearing up are doing this? I get it that it has hit hard on them, and many had to feel for them, but many are asking, why now? Why not then?

Many had to keep quiet about the secrets. Many had to keep quiet about the claims, or the backdoor politics to allow the alleged to walk scot free. Yes, many claimed that R. Kelly probably told the women of now, girls then to keep their mouths shut and never break a word to anyone getting all hyper-emotional years later. Well, guess what, their silence is broken. Plus in all the long traumatic commentary, it seems that also that many are calling this foul ball: It’s all fake, trying to get money, trying to be famous or just yet just want to exploit the real deal about R. Kelly that many feel it’s false. Or speaking of that, many black women and black men are actually defending R. Kelly! Are you kidding me?!!! And not only that, many folks whom have Spotify, probably logging in so many times to play R. Kelly’s music in positive aspects. But these are the folks whom probably don’t care, they are still going to play his music, watch his videos online (music videos) in all. And many still are doing it. I have some of R. Kelly’s music in my collection and I haven’t played them in a long while. Just never did. I just left them alone.

When I looked at all the segments, it brought me back to all the talk about Trauma and the effects of it. The women in the special had a traumatic reaction from the past and it’s something that they can’t shake. Many also had to ask, what compelled R. Kelly to do these things that many are assuming or believing? What is causing the matter of this to occur so many times before? Was this done to him when he was younger growing up in Chicago? As a matter of fact, when he was younger according to a previously recorded footage in the special, he was sexually approached. By one of his sisters! He said it! And he also said that it was a common thing in his family. So what do we have here is a long mental health problem. A Psychological Traumatic Problem. A problem being messed up in the community that has been aware for a long time. Especially in the black families!

This sort of reminds me of a old Chris Rock joke; no pun intended. About not leaving the kids with Uncle Johnny. He summarized about those molesting Uncles that many need to watchout for. This probably was about 2004, during his “Never Scared” segment. It may seemed funny in all, but in reality, as everyone knows, it’s the truth!

So why I’m posting about trauma here on the spot? Many of us probably encountered Trauma in various ways. Families, the workplaces, organizations, the Church, and many many different groups and cliques that we associate with EVERYDAY! Even memories being tormented or attacked of ANY KIND, even embarrassed. No matter the feeling or angle it’s all related. So again, Trauma IS NOT NEW!!!!!

And even this has nothing to do with R. Kelly alleged Sex Scandals with the young girls (now adults) you have 800,000 workers in the U.S. Government that can’t get paid due to the crappy stuff about 45’s Wall. They can’t feed their families, getting the bills paid, and any other necessity that folks need everyday. And oh, even the U.S. Coast Guard under the Department of Homeland Security! Talk about TRAUMA! This crap of this so-called president taking away paychecks for a useless wall is just that: USELESS! And this is called Making America Great Again?! For all you 45 Trump Supporters about this, are you happy about this?! And don’t even front.

So yes, this is how 2019 got started, where the ending of 2018 was left undone: devolving the ability to suck out the soul of the middle class. And I know that the new House members are in place. We got a fight on our hands now which is NOT familiar! And as far as R. Kelly is concerned, already he’s feeling the heat of all this scandalous checkered past of the accusers and also recently, Sony has cut ties with him since the #SurvivingRKelly special aired on Cable TV. And about the Spotify rating that got R. Kelly’s music on rotation, I’m scratching my head on that one. Really I am. (Spoiler Alert, there will be a first Scratching my Head of the year)

If these things are not being called out or being mentioned, I’m just saying. The backdoor has been left WIDE OPEN and many folks just come in like it’s nothing. Time to fix it and shut it down!

Welcome to the blog story that is traditional. Let’s review of what I said last year with a twist:

Like Sgt. Hulka used to say in the movie Stripes: “before we proceed any further, we gotta get something straight.”

I’m going to be taking this blog to new heights. It’s not just going to be the same old song and dance. Nope, that is going to be one and done. It’s going to more than just one blog story. No matter if you are in America or in freaking India, be ready. This blog thing will one day, get real. If I got to get my Periscope, or own video thing on here to help my stories, well: that’s what I have to do one day. What does all this mean? It means that I have to get better with the idea of blogging with the issues and concerns. I have to. It’s not just that thing that needs to be done, it must be done to improve. To inspire and yes, to get to the point of view that I need to display.

Yes, folks will walk tall, shoulders back, chin up, conscious up to the 10th level, and of course, this is an idea that would be beneficial. I thought about destroying this blog and ending a 10+ year streak, all because of other concerns of boredom or that same story. But wait…..this could be a benefit to help and inspire. While many might think that one story from a blog is all there is, think again!

“Stephen’s Spot” is not just about one blog story. Or one picture. Or one anything. It can be revolutionary, inspirational, conscious, fun, life experienced, or just plain normal. It’s not a one dance show. It’s one in the million that can be experienced if many take the time to read more than one. Now, I know many are just now discovering the blog based on what I have written back in 2014 or whatever. But if you (yes you) the reader actually like what I write here, in a sense of right now, thank you.

Knowingly I can’t control what others might read, but by me writing more, and thinking more, it will be fully objectionable for me to carry on. I’m in the 40-year-old plus age bracket, and yes this age bracket will indeed test my theory and summarize.

So guess what: you want Stephen’s Spot? I’ll give you Stephen’s Spot! This is no same old song and dance. Nope, not here!

So for now: let’s start my New Year’s Tradition of Stephen’s Spot that doesn’t need a repeat: What do I want to see and not want to see in 2019! 19 things by the way.

It’s GO TIME!

First Five I want to see in THAT YEAR OF 2019:

Employment/Health & Wellness/Politics/Voting

1) It’s time to work, folks. If this is the year that you will get that real job, the time is now! No more wasting time by waiting on others. It won’t work. We need to have a “Career Awareness Month”. We need to have better job fairs, career expos, have a “seasonal vet” career fair for the mature folks. Not that watered down stuff that many are getting. Even if you still have that degree in the display, that many will pass up. We have to do EXTRA better.

2) If you got to get yourself checked, do it. You know where the doctors are. As well as the dentists, eye examination folks and more. Matter of fact some of them might be near you right now. And while we’re at it, we need to for real get educated about the issues of health. I hear say, “you need to do this or that”. or “you need a flu shot.” BEFORE ANY THAT HAPPENS: ASK QUESTIONS! Forget what you saw on Facebook, know that real stuff first! Really stop and ask definite questions!

3) 2019 also means that the Congress will take over with some new #45 laws being placed unfairly. If any of the new members screw up, get on their case! Don’t just complain on social media, complain to the So-and-sos! Write letters or emails with proper sentences! You can do that, you know. Oh, and if you approve of the work that some or many are doing to help this country and mainly in your districts, show some love! Volunteer or work on their staff, help in politics on their behalf. Be an Able Body Person to carry that out!

4) You should know that 2019 is a “mini” voting year? Oh, you didn’t know this? Pay attention! It’s not the Presidential election, but maybe some of your County Judges or Superintendents will up be running on the ballot. Do better!

5) Speaking of the voting thing, this would be a good time to get your voter registration checked and/or updated to get ready for the 2019-20 election years. I want to see this happen even more. Forget waiting until 2020! It’s best to do it NOW!

Next Five I don’t want to see:Church/African-Americans/Credit Checks/Not Voting

6) Like last year, and the year before that and previous years: I don’t want to see NO ONE complaining about the lack of this or that in the church. If you don’t have a certain something going in your church, then make something happen! Keep at it! What did I say after my father’s passing in 2017: Be empowered, and Stay in the fight!

7) And like many many years ago: I don’t want to see black folks putting other black folks down for stupid pathetic reasons! No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Either for Jobs, Education (past or present) contributions, clubs/organizations etc. And that goes for anyone else. It doesn’t matter what you got with you. Either way, NO EXCUSES!

8) Never EVER OVERLOOK THIS: Black Queens: you say you LOVE us Black Kings right? DO YOU?! Here is a “whenever you get a chance” challenge that you might not think. Cater to us for ONE DAY at a restaurant, or maybe give us a day that we might enjoy. Think it over! Many of you got Brothers, Fathers, Uncles, Husbands, Boyfriends, Cousins, Neighbors, and many other male influences that you probably know that need that appreciation! Even Black Kings whom you overlook a lot, never thought about, or being Single and no relationships. You guys go all out for your thing and we’re in the seats. Why not us?

9) I HOPE TO GOD, I don’t want to see credit checks on black folks no more. Matter of fact, not on anyone anywhere with credit checks!

10) I don’t want to see those who didn’t vote to gloat. Guess what: Elections have Consequences. Period!

Five More things I want to see:

Alumni Associations/Results Doing Actual Work and Milestones/ Black Church Groups/Black Community/Fraternities and Sororities

11) I want to see more of us ALUMNI (YOUNG AND OLD) to reinvest in our Alumni Groups. Not just for the class reunions and everyone also shows up broke, mad, left out and uninformed. If you get pissed about not being informed about a class reunion or gathering, DO NOT GET MAD AT THE ALUMNI COMMITTEE! You need to be backing up your Alumni Contacts from your classmates, anyway. And if your Alumni Organizations messes up, get on their case!

12) I want to see the results of us “doing the work”. Not just the partial results of patting on the back and say “nice work”. But also what did it took to get the results needed. And if your employee is celebrating a milestone of service (10, 20, etc), give him or her the due of respect. It’s the right thing to do. Or even if no one gives you a pin of service: give yourself one!

13) I want us “non-scared and scared grown folks in the Black Church Groups” to talk to our youth. Seriously talk to them. Some of them need us to come to them. I don’t care if they are in the schools shooting basketballs or at the community centers or in church playing Chess or Madden. Or double dutching, or even learning a praise dance. Even tutoring and READING BOOKS! Let’s learn to #HashtagAndTalk to our young folks. Male members of the church: get the young men involved in these groups! Women, you know what it is.

14) I want to see more black folks in the communities who think there is nothing there to do, start something! Stop complaining! Stop moaning! Get up and get out and make the stuff happen! Such as Health stuff, job applications, resumes, networking, organizing a business venture. Able Body folks, if you’re still standing outside of a Walgreens or a Gas Station asking for money, and if you can still move around, get inside that building and ask for an application! Why is that so hard?

15) Like last year and year ago, here is a thought: I want to see ALL fraternities, and ALL sororities to “recruit and meet up” with seasoned vets that can help out. Especially those of the black fraternities and sororities. All of the Divine 9 folks: From the Alphas to the Iotas and from the AKA’s to the Sigma Gamma Rho’s: Have a day in which YOU need to go out to the seasoned vets of those who are 40-ish and up that want to join up to support the groups you represent. And also, don’t be so VERY judgmental about those who are at that 40’s range. The best place to find us: either at our church events, alumni group meetings, etc. And this goes for the American Legion Family, Masons, Elks, Eastern Stars, and etc. WE SEE YOU! You need to re-introduce yourselves!

Final four: I want not to see and want to see.Black Lives Matter/Volunteerism/Grown After 18/If it doesn’t work…..

16) Of all the things I don’t want to see: enough of the blame game on Black Lives Matter that seemed violent or racist. For all you Blue Lives Matter or copying off the Black Lives Matter Movement, you will suck. Instead of hating on Black Lives Matter at least go to a meeting or hear from those who lost a brother, or sister or a parent that was black. Take notes, Blue Lives Matter. And don’t front!MASSIVE NEW YEAR’S CALLOUT: And also white folks: enough calling the cops on black folks doing CIVILIZED stuff like campaigns, jobs, barbecues, community projects, volunteering or even waiting on a client, going into their apartment, swimming, selling lemonade, or to be SEATED AT A RESTAURANT OR AT STARBUCKS! Be advised and WARNED; if you work at a job, you will be fired for these stupid acts! And it takes a SMARTPHONE with video to get you TERMINATED!

17) Now, this probably might work in this 2019: Get grown in your own work and volunteerism. We know what we need to do, and what to do this year. So why not get involved? And the time is right now! Didn’t I say it’s time to work?

18) This is for the grown folks 18 and up: HANDLE your grown business! After all, we supposed to be grown after 18, right?

19) If any of the plans that don’t work, This should be seen and heard by EVERYONE: If there are things that might be difficult, stressful, unhealthy, not financially, and many others, Leave it alone! Find a Plan B, or what you know best and stick to that! Keywords: PLAN B!

Oh you know I’m about to go in. 2018 had me crazy! It had me on point, it had me on rotation, and it had me bugged out. But at the end of me asking these crazy questions we might understand it better. But…since this is the last Scratching my Head all this time of the year, but it’s not the last! So as we countdown to the last ticks of 2018, and we prepare for our Watch Night Services, All Night parties, and family gathering to usher in 2019, and yes to get our resolutions out of what we want to do in all: you’ve guessed it, I’m scratching my head YET AGAIN!

Alright, who remembers any of my blog posts from 10 years ago?

Did anyone really pay attention to the fact that the 45 Administration is getting punked with all the Government Shutdowns in all?

What’s up with the Bird Box?

How will the Governor-Elect Tony Evers Crew really will tame the still Republican Legislature in the first term?

Why is White Supremacy still a maximum problem? Even if it’s a problem among black people in 2018?

What will be next for the Green Bay Packers that got knocked the “F” out of the playoffs, knowing that the team will rebuild and reform for the 2019-2020 Season?

You know that the Milwaukee Bucks are for real, right?

So Milwaukee, has anyone really benefited from riding the streetcar thus far in its free year?

Will the Fiserv Forum be that new guard changing of the now “soon to be dust” Bradley Center?

When Stan Lee passed away, did Bill Maher actually checked him to see he served in the Military? Mainly WWII?! Many need answers!

How many folks outside of Wisconsin never knew anything about the late great Vel Phillips?

What was the best car in 2018?

What were the worst jobs of 2018 that many will NEVER DO AGAIN?

Why did the black websites and Facebook Pages kept repeatedly on rotation published the same story about Pastor John Gray and that Lamborghini gift to his wife?

Level with me OWN viewers, what was the real reason why Love Is was canceled?

For all the black women that watched this show and I know you did: Why BET’s Mancave?

Was this the first year that many REALLY recognized International Men’s Day in November?!

For all of the Becky’s and other white folks that called the police on black folks doing civilized stuff this year and you know you did, where were your conscious minds at doing that foolishness?

Did the #MeToo Movement reach its breaking point in a sense of things that backfired?

If you smelled like Marijuana all through 2018, and you’re in the store or were in a store, did you remember to wash up before leaving the house?

For all those hated Introverts, especially BLACK Introverts, why you picked on them? Like seriously.

Will anymore Black Pastors meet with 45 in 2019 that embarrassed themselves in 2018?

So, Mutant Football League on the Nintendo Switch is making a good impression. What will it actually take for EA to get a Madden game on the system?

Most recently, I’ve seen black authors publish their books on Amazon about their Introvert experience in 2018. I need to see more. Can that happen?

Was Diablo III for the Nintendo Switch really good?

Oh, this needs to be asked, Wolfenstein II was HOT in 2018. Will it be a sequel for the Nintendo Switch?

Which jobs or careers were or are beneficial for the introverted crowd in Wisconsin in 2018?

In 2018, did many benefited using bitcoins?

In this year of stock investing, who bought a share of the Nike Stock or yet, Marijuana stock?

When the Grads of 2018 had their moment of commencements, why were some were being touched by those after dancing on stage?

Who has or is really learning from Roland Martin’s show online?

What was the worst interview this country has ever seen in 2018?

Was Black Panther that darn good this year at the movies and on DVD?

Black Church folks, are you ready for the Watch Night Services?

Was not getting the flu shot that worst in 2018?!

Black Milwaukee, what was better in 2018: WNOV 860AM between 9am-12pm or 1510AM WRRD between 9am-12pm?

So now the WWE will be getting the Women’s Tag Team Belts in 2019. But…………….what about a title that is a mid-carder for the women’s squad? For Raw, Smackdown, and NXT?

Black folks, why are we still saying the N-Word?

In 2018: who got promoted?

In 2018: who actually voted? Not just one time during the midterm election!

In 2018: Did many actually went to the doctor?

In 2018: Did any of you retained your resolutions?

In 2018: Milwaukee, did you enjoyed the Harley-Davidson 115th Anniversary? As well as Summerfest?

In 2018: Black folks, especially in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, I know this was reported, why all the “underground pledging” that sends your pledging member in the ER?!!!

In 2018: Have any of you saved up financially for that nest egg?

In 2018: level with me, how many times that many of you DID NOT support your Alumni groups?

In 2018: Who did the most work in your community?

In 2018: Who did no work in the community? They need to be called out.

In 2018: Who was the “Dark Horse” in your family, church, organizations, etc?

In 2018: who has a job lined up for 2019 that will be even MORE SECURE?

In 2018: Who wanted a job lined up that no one wanted but applied anyway?

In 2018: How many churches you prayed to, in order to be the best they can?

In 2018: What influenced you to vote against the Republicans that many despised?

If you are a Veteran or related to a Veteran, did you call out a Veteran that protested in support of the Wall in 2018?

The American Legion will be 100 years old in 2019, right? I want to know how many African-Americans will join up and also, how many Sons of Black Veterans will join the Sons of the American Legion? Even Black Daughters the same with the Auxillary?

How many liked Black Lightning this year?

In Milwaukee, many of us have seen the sample of Light the Hoan. Who made a donation in 2018?

Black Methodists in Wisconsin, guess what? BMCR made a comeback this year. What did you think?

United Methodist Men in Wisconsin, there is a metro men’s group in town looking for “Men at Work”. Have you checked out any the meetings this year? If so, what did you think?

Who was this Jacquees dude, and why is claiming to be the King of R&B? Like in 2018?!

So I have heard that some of the GM cars might be on the chopping block in the year ahead, Which of those cars will be less to buy in the future?

Was it really a downer that Luke Cage was canceled on Netflix?

I need to ask also, who missed Scandal?

With all the retirees retired this year, who is next to go in 2019?

Many of us watched the Pinstripe Bowl when the Badgers beat Miami. A good game of course. So many questions like where were this Badgers team all year?!

If many still did blackface in 2018 which was shameful, can many not do it in 2019?

Who actually “migrated” out if Milwaukee that moved to Atlanta or Texas just to get away from the racism but only to realize that racism is everywhere?

Was it really necessary that 45 pulled the troops out of Syria?

If you hated Church folks so much in 2018, why keep talking about it?!

If many did this in 2018: Resumes. Did many kill it for job interviews?

Can someone explain the bad connection between buying Christmas gifts and Tax Time?

In all of the 1,000 posts so far, what wasn’t mentioned?

In all of the 1,000 posts what was learned from you?

In all of the 1,000 posts did anyone ever to follow what else I had to say?

Which Wisconsin teams surprised many in 2018? Brewers or Bucks?

Of all the folks who passed away this year, who was the main person that didn’t receive much recognition?

Of all the folks who were honored this year for their hard work, who didn’t get any recognition after their hard work?

Anyone lost their job unfairly in 2018?

Who was EMBARRASSED HARSHLY in 2018 that will not go away? And will it take to heal?

And this is the last question before the ball drops and clocks out for 2018: What will you carry into 2019 that you learned in 2018? And also, what will you NOT take into 2019 that you went through hellfire and brimstone in 2018?

Time to archive 2018. Its time the year of the dog is to be archived in the Dog House. But of course, the living examples of voting, racism, protesting, and yet many others will linger on. Well know, it’s about time that the year of 2018, is now over. But before that happens of dropping balls and popping corks: lets us review the year that was. So now, in that case, it’s time for the Traditional Stephen’s Spot Annual Review blog of 2018! It’s time to review, summarize and learn from the year has gone by very efficiently.

The Good Nationally:

Most recently on December 28th, 2018: The Dow Jones ended the year at 23,062.40.

The Affordable Care Act got new folks to sign up for the insurance. Just like last year, despite the thought of losing its mandate.

The Boston Red Sox won a World Series Title. Their 9th actually.

The Golden State Warriors won another NBA Championship.

For the NFL: A first for Philadelphia winning the big game: Superbowl 52, Featuring former Wisconsin Badgers RB Corey Clement.

Pete Souza’s Book, Shade sold very well in the retaliation of 45’s Tweets.

Barack Obama is still admired.

The March for our Lives Rally was about the youth and anti-gun violence.

For the NCAA Men’s Basketball: Villanova.

For the NCAA’s Women’s Basketball: Notre Dame.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married.

Yet on TV Again: How To Get Away With Murder, Empire, The Haves and Have Nots, and Blackish still dominate.

On YouTube Red: Cobra Kai.

Heard that Barack Obama and Netflix might be a connectable match coming up.

Scandal ends after 7 Seasons. Great ride.

And yet, Modern Family continues to roll.

Black Lightning had a STRONG debut of Season 1.

Yet again, the Hallmark Christmas specials came back for another year. With black leading cast roles!

TGIF returns to ABC. That’s Thank Goodness it’s Funny for those not born before 1990.

WWE Raw and Smackdown Live were huge in 2018. Ranging from the Women’s Division rising up, NXT and also PVV’s of the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania. Plus the Greatest Royal Rumble. And the PPV Evolution had a strong debut for the Women’s Department.

Milestones in 2018:

Silent Night – 200 years.

The Assassinations of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy were marked at 50 years.

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity and the March on Washington was summarized after 55 Years.

The ending of WWI was marked with 100 years on Veterans Day (formerly Armistice Day).

For the United Methodist Church: the biggest news that the Denomination celebrated it’s golden year of 50 since the newly created organization was founded in May of 1968.

NASA turned 60 years old this year and the Apollo 8 Mission is highlighted after 50 years of it’s Christmas Eve Space Flight. Milwaukee Native and Veteran Astronaut James Lovell was a featured speaker recently.

The Nintendo Switch still made a surge in sales.TRADE ALERT NATIONALLY:

Roland Martin was under contract via TVOne until the Summer of 2018. Now, he owns (OWNS) a daily digital show called, Roland Martin Unfiltered. With this show, Roland highlights the daily news topics of politics and special reports. His show is making a mark of what is missing that the major networks don’t cover nor talk about. Plus his theme song is performed by EnVogue.

Lebron James goes from Cleveland Cavs to the L.A. Lakers.

Straight Outta Wisconsin in a good way:

Tony Evers BEAT Scott Walker for the Wisconsin Governor Election. Thus also, Former State Rep Mandela Barnes becomes the first black Lt. Governor in Wisconsin’s 170th-year history. More recently, the newly Governor-Elect appointed Carolyn Stanford Taylor to be the next State Superintendent of Schools: Another FIRST For Wisconsin’s Black History.

According to the recent reports, the unemployment rate around Wisconsin is hovering under 17%. But still, a way to go.

For the Wisconsin Badgers Football team: The Team has a few downs and mostly ups. The team finished 8-5 overall in the 2018 Season. Jonathan Taylor becomes the latest Badger to finish with All-American Honors. And recently qualified for a bowl game, a Pinstripe Bowl game to defeat Miami 35-3.

Milwaukee Police Department goes after Reckless Drivers in the Hot Spot Zones of the city. Just like last year.

For the Green Bay Packers: Not so much this year. Despite a 6-9-1 record on the standings, the organization surpassed 100 Seasons in the NFL. Jimmy Graham was traded to the Packers from New Orleans. Davante Adams became a new force in the wide receiver angle for the team. Blake Martinez, Kyle Fackrell stepped up the defensive side of the team, and Aaron Rodgers signed a 100,000.000 contract for the next couple of years to keep him in the green and gold until he turns 40. (If possible)

The Good Locally

Light the Hoan. Get used saying that name, because they will “Light The Hoan!” Oh and the sample was good!

Attention Black Milwaukeeans and Wisconsinites: Black Arts Fest MKE debuts after a 5-year absence of no Arts Festival for the Black Community on the Lakefront.

The Milwaukee Public Schools welcomed back the Alumni again. For the third time at The Tripoli Shrine Center!

Here’s a shocker, Milwaukee was recently listed as one of the cities in the U.S. that you can start a business.

A portion of 4th Street between St. Paul Avenue and Capitol Drive has been named after Vel Phillips.

The Milwaukee Brewers finished the season with a strong ending of 96 Wins 67 Losses, capturing the NL Central Division, and were the runner-up in the NLDS vs the LA Dodgers. Christian Yelich was chosen the NL Player of the year of 2018.

The Fiserv Forum opens its doors for business and entertainment. While conversely, the Bradley Center ends its 30-year reign.

The Milwaukee Bucks had a strong season this year earlier finishing 42 wins, 40 losses. Ending up in the 6th seed in the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs as a runner-up vs the Boston Celtics. Since moving to the new Fiserv Forum, the team got a new coach, Mike Budenhozer and as of this week ending in 2018, the team was 24-10, and in first place in the Eastern Conference.

The Bublr Bikes still expanded. Again!

Ikea debuts in Oak Creek.

Since 2016, the BMO Harris Bank was demolished after the Sherman Park Riots. The Bank has been rebuilt and also in the building of the former bank rose a Phoenix. A Sherman Phoenix!

Amazon will build a plant in Oak Creek by 2021.

The Grand Avenue Mall is getting a makeover.

The Old Warner Grand Theater (or the Grand Theater to the current heads) will become the new home of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

The BMO Harris Tower is under construction in Downtown Milwaukee.

Milwaukee County: Sheriff Earnell Lucas was voted to lead the Sheriff’s Department.

Well known to retire locally:

For the retirees in Milwaukee: Kathy Mykelby of Channel 12 retires after 38 years of Broadcasting. Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn retired after 40+ years in Law Enforcement.

Also celebrated milestones locally:

Harley-Davidson marked 115 years as a motorcycle company. And featured several attractions of bike races on Bradford Beach and many others. The race on Bradford Beach was a first for Harley in over 100 years. If those were wondering, that’s part of how Harley was noticed. Also, the traditional Harley-Davidson Parade concluded the festivities along Wisconsin Avenue.

50 years ago, Milwaukee had an Open Housing March that ended in 1968, following up from the year earlier. Thus starting up the Housing Laws.

Hold Up: Those that left professions locally:

Several Milwaukee TV personalities recently left their craft all over the city but now, they have decided to find new ideas in their careers. Fox 6’s Beverly Taylor and Myra Sanchick, plus Today’s TMJ 4’s Tatiana Cash have resigned from their professions. We thank them for their Milwaukee TV Broadcasting Services.TRADE ALERT LOCALLY: In late July, a shocking announcement (via Social Media) that “The Forum” with Sherwin Hughes on 860AM WNOV was ending its 6-year reign. But several weeks later on August 13th, 2018 it was resurrected and started fresh on another station, Real Resistance Radio, 1510AM WRRD.The Bad Nationally

Racism struck again in America.

Most of the Black Republicans were not very vocal against the 45.

School Shootings in Parkland, Florida.

45 made stingy enemies out of April D. Ryan, Yamiche Alcindor, Jemele Hill, Stacy Abrams, Andrew Gilliam, Joy-Ann Reid, and many other African-American folks that protested and commented against the so-called President. Even against Congresswoman “Auntie” Maxine Waters.

The Senate retained the position overseen by Republicans.

Many of the Caucasian Americans had false accusations of Black folks ranging from barbecuing, shopping, entering their place of residence, jobs, campaigns and many other constructive ideas and objectives.

Nigeria faced flooding issues. As well as Japan and North Korea.

Several members of the 45 Administration were fired or resigned despite the position of power.

Bill Cosby – formally known as America’s Favorite Dad, was off to jail.

California Wildfires

John Acosta of CNN gets booted from the White House after questioning 45. Then came back in due to his First Amendment Rights.

Families separated near the U.S. Mexico Border.

Larry Nassar – the now former USA Gymnastics/Michigan State Doctor goes to prison. All or most of the 175 years sentencing.

Shootings in Bakersfield, California.

Shootings in Alabama.

School Shootings in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The 45 Administration just loved Government Shutdowns.

Cambridge Anlythica and Facebook had a revealing concept of data.

The Caravan.

After the blackface topic, Megyn Kelly gets fired from NBC.

In addition to the officers killed in Milwaukee, other officers in different parts of the Country also passed on in duty. Slightly higher than 2017.

Sears Stores as many shopped for years had announced the closing of their stores. Same with Toys R Us. (But came back as “Geoffery’s Toy Box” in the grocery stores)

Indonesia was hit with a Tsunami and an EarthQuake.

Several black pastors caused a stirring meeting with 45.

Hurricane Florence.

The “Russian Bots” and their interference in the elections and social justice concerns against the United States.

Cyber attacking hit the American Newspapers.

In recent reports, Teachers are quitting at a rapid pace within the 10 month period of the year.

The UK was struck with Racism around their Black History Month Celebrations in October.

The woes of Stormy Daniels.

Christine Blasey Ford vs Brett Kavanaugh.The Bad Locally

Racism, of course, struck Wisconsin. Not just in Milwaukee.

For the first time in 25 years: Klement Sausage lost its sponsorship via the Milwaukee Brewers.

For the first time in nearly 100 years, the Milwaukee Christmas Parade was canceled due to lack of funding support, and the family overseeing the parade had retired. Plus the singing bears were not around in the Grand Avenue Mall.

For the first time in 22 years (1996), 2 Milwaukee Police Officers were killed in the line of duty.

A tried attempt to acquire more federal funds for the Milwaukee Streetcar fell short in trying to expand the Vel Philips Avenue area to the Fiserv Forum.

FIRED COACHES: Mike McCarthy was fired from the Green Bay Packers after 13 seasons. Conversely, Jason Kidd was fired from the Milwaukee Bucks previously earlier in the year.

Foxconn remained in question about the legality of access to jobs and government.

By the numbers: The number of homicides in Milwaukee was at 101.

Opioids in the rural areas were mostly a problem and it remains a dilemma to this day.

In regarding the black pastors and 45, Bishop Darell Hines a local minister of Christian Fellowship Church also met with the enemy and not many were pleased. Especially FORMER Members and current antagonists.The Ugly Nationally

The unlikely viewpoint of White Women and some men calling the police on African-Americans due to being civilized and doing constructive aspects. Even jobs. Such as : Barbecuing While Black, Campaigning While Black, Working While Black, and Volunteering While Black.

Voter Suppression was unleashed harshly in several states. Especially among elderly black folks.

Blackfaces.

Kanye West meeting with 45. Then realizing it was a mistake.

The ongoing talk of 45’s Wall.

The VA encountered glitches for our veterans for their ongoing payments.

An unlikely turn of events, the City of Milwaukee’s Election Commission was under the scrutiny of the number of absentee ballots recorded that gave the victory to Tony Evers. Who lead the scrutiny? Governor Scott Walker.

Before on speaking good terms, the Brothers of Aaron Rodgers were not on the same page.

We Speak their names – last drink to those that passed on in 2018

Billy Graham

Stan Lee

Penny Marshall

George H.W. Bush

Barbara Bush

Aretha Franklin

Roy Clark

Dynamite Kid

Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart

Brian Lawler (aka Grandmaster Sexay)

Larry “The Axe” Henning

Nikolai Volkoff

Big Van Vader

Stephen Hawking

Burt Reynolds

Sen. John McCain

Mac Miller

Stephen Hillerburg

Joe Jackson

Robin Leach

Craig Mack

Bruno Sammartino

Winnie Mandela

Ken Berry

Neil Simon

Ed Schultz

Anthony Bourdain

Kate Spade

Verne Troyer

Charlotte Rae

R. Lee Emery

Richard Overton

XXXTenaction

We speak their names – Those that Milwaukee Lost Locally

Milwaukee Police Officers Charles Irvine, Jr. and Michael Michalski.

Sandra Parks

Shannon D. Mani

Kiara Brown

Alfred Bader

Vel Phillips

And the final analysis of my point of view: I must say that as a blogger in my own right, the creative side of this writing continues to thrive my ability to communicate. The fact of the matter is, my style is very much in its zone by itself. When the announcement came to me on Thanksgiving after I written the “Be Thankful” surpassing 1,000 posts that were like……where was this going? I am now extra motivated to do this even more.

If you the audience no matter where you’re from and if you checked out this blog beforehand or just now tuning in, thank you. Yes, this blog site has reached 1,000 plus posts and over 25,000 hits. But likewise, there is so much to discuss. Ideas like health, finance, employment, my city of Milwaukee, religion, social media and other avenues to explore. Even as a black man in America, I must write my stories.

Knowing that yes, writing 1,000 plus posts was and is, definitely hard work! It’s not easy at times, but when it’s on your mind to know and summarize of what’s going on in your community, that is when you get your mind jogging and get to work.

We know that yes, Christmas is coming up. Matter of fact is coming so quick you’ll be watching “Its a Wonderful Life” over and over again like crazy. And Home Alone. And the Hallmark Christmas Shows. And those Christmas Commercials. Oh yeah, Christmas is coming with all the bells and whistles. Likewise: With all the still problems of Government Shutdowns, folks stealing packages and wrecking Black Santas, and other things that folks are somewhat conscious of in a demeaning manner, guess what: I’m scratching my head again!

What was the best Christmas Commercial of all time……IN Milwaukee?

So the infamous Scrooge of 45 is doing a Government Shut Down before the holiday. Man, what’s up with the bonuses?!

Oh, Hey December folks: Did we party or still partying?

There will be those who will try to dampen the spirit of Christmas of “exposing the truth” in all. Sigh…..so these are the boring folks with nothing to do or didn’t get enough attention growing up?

For us Sagittarians: did we shoot our arrows well in our Season of Centaurs?

What is the best Christmas Commerical right now?

Getting back to the best gifts, which was the best gift that many Wisconsin voters got?

Speaking of Scrooges: so Scott Walker had to pull a rigged stipulation to limit the governor powers of the next soon to be Governor Tony Evers and AG Josh Kaul. Anyone agree that its a farce against our democracy?Ok, what was the best Christmas Commercial of all time in a national sense?

What crime was committed when Pastor John Gray presented his wife a Lamborghini SUV that cost about $200,000?!! What was the crime spree of this?! And this is for those who don’t do church or didn’t get the memo that the amount paid for the car WAS NOT USED BY THE CHURCH! Get your facts straight, instigators. You don’t know anything! And no, I’m not defending Pastor John Gray.

The only question I have in this so-called Government Shutdown: Where’s the Government Worker’s Christmas Bonuses that should have counted?

So Kevin Hart is not hosting next year’s Oscars all because of what he said years ago about the LGBTQ Community. Since when that became a stipulation of this? Look to my LGBTQ folks who have been hurt on that, how do you heal from this? While knowing that Kevin’s part had to be turned down?

Why do those on the international side look at American Scholarships knowing that they are NOT U.S. Citizens? Just asking for a future writer! Not to take away opportunities abound. But yes, they do have Scholarships for those who do Education abroad. Just saying.

Alright, why is Fortnite a thing now?

How do folks that are Anti-Tech going positive for Emails? Do they know that using Email is part of technology?

It’s funny though I already forgot that Christmas was fastly approaching. Has anyone felt that on a hilarious tip? We know it’s coming. Prepare for your minds to be warped!

When folks wrap the gifts, has the message already been told?

You know anyone that is gift giving is really a Santa Claus, right?

Folks, I’m getting mad at this: why many of you smell like weed in the store? I mean doesn’t matter if it’s at Walmart, Target, Pick N’ Save or any store or driving in the car and the smell from other vehicles draws a bad stench. Seriously folks, what is the real deal?!!! Clean up!

Is the WWE ready for another Christmas Eve Monday Night Raw?

Seriously asking, so is being an Introvert really getting a negative feeling of looking for jobs? As well as looking forward to the holidays?

Every company needs a Christmas Bonus rule. Yeah, I said it. What about yours?

Alright: who saw Aquaman? Or Bumblebee? Or both Aquaman and Bumblebee? Do not comment on what happens! No hints, nor clues, please. Keep it to yourselves!

Will there a be another Scratching my Head All this time blog before the year is out? Of course.

Is it really fronting to say Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, or Season’s Greetings? You realize that saying Happy Holidays – is a holy day. Run away, atheists.

This is the main question here: And this is for those who are so curious about it. What is it about folks looking at the Haka Dances on the internet? You know it’s not a new thing out now. Don’t even front.

Way before the Hip Hop of things merged with Christmas, which hip-hop song surged a spark for the Holiday? (Older heads, this may not be for you)

According to the United Methodist Church Website, you realized that folks have sung, signed, or played Silent Night for 200 years?

Oh, over in Oregon a black couple’s Black Santa Claus display was damaged. Racism as it’s finest. Does anyone realize that there are BLACK SANTAS that can be displayed, right?!

Easy question here: we heard the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (whom I’m just now hearing don’t judge), Run DMC, Boyz II Men (25 Years since Christmas Interpretations) The Temptations, James Brown, Jackson 5, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross, Vanessa Williams, and countless others who have given us memorable Christmas jams on rotation every season.

Speaking of Lethal Weapon: Why wasn’t that movie added to the Christmas Movies List?!!! It’s not just Die Hard!

Hey Grinches: you realize after taking or stealing packages off of porches, you’re being really dumb right now, correct? And houses are getting security cameras with doorbells! With Cops!

Which TV shows in history has been always a Christmas feel to it? Don’t act like you know. Even some black shows had a Christmas feel to it.

This needs to be asked: why the fascination of Michelle Obama’s $4,000 boots? Asking for a friend! We all love Michelle, but just asking. Except for the haters who just hate a Black Woman Former FLOTUS on fleek.

And the last and final question on point: Kids, are you ready for Santa? (Even though it’s a creation of imagination)

Well, folks, it seems that the Season of the Centaur is about to end for another year. Yes, I know. But It’s going to be alright! Yes, I know you Capricorns are about to take over that Zodiac Baton in all. AGAIN. But before you take over as well as any other zodiac takes over being the best:

One advice, never EVER overlook a Sagittarius! NEVER OVERLOOK a Centaur! We stay loyal 365 ALL DAY every day we have the bows and arrows on lockdown!

So with that: here is my “closing” that I like to call, Ode to Sagittarius: the next level fiery breakthrough.

There are haters and doubters of those of us who are centaurs roaming, let them hate but we all know that joy comes in the morning.

Many of you already know that on December 5th, I turned #42, That I know. But for you still latecomers, it might be a better breakthrough!

Those of us in the game acting, and those of us whom we aspire, like Bryshere Grey whom still make moves like Hakeem on Empire.

Sags like us are always on point even those who think we are that slacker. They should be more focused and relaxed, like my December 5th birthday twin: Amy Acker.

We Archer folks love to bounce back. Even those who think we are dead and able. Kindly ask Aaron Rodgers, Aaron Jones and Jimmy Graham, who like the rest of the Packers had a lopsided season and will again next to change for another run the table!

Us Sag folk can be direct and cool, that has the ability to soar to new heavens and exciting. But like Hal Williams back in his Lester Jenkins days, we can be more direct and serious like on 227. Or even like now Nafeesa Williams that does black girl magic wonders of Thunder on Black Lightning!

Sagittarius folks, we love the freedom that we know. And embrace the look abounds that is united in force worldwide, just ask the 2016 Miss America Champ and U.S. Army Soldier Deshauna Barber that received that the full source! And even Portia Simpson Miller, and French leader Emmanuel Macron that knows their political angles they confide!

When that time to fight for our freedoms or that personal stuff, we really settle the score through and through, we get gritty like the Wrestlers such as Elias, Dean Ambrose, Luke Harper, Dana Brooke, Naomi, Trinity, Rob Van Dam and even Hall of Famers like Jerry Lawler, Sunny, Rey Mysterio, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Trish Stratus and Kurt Angle. Oh, it’s true! it’s d**n True!

When us in the centaur nation roams like the stampede in the game, just take notes for all: study a Sagittarius like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is “Built to Stay” with Milwaukee Bucks Basketball.

Even when we are ourselves, we Sagittarius folk are so revolutionary. So conscious. So empowered with objectives to create and maintain the cause: Please continue to review the work of Ella Baker, Mark Lamont Hill, Adam Clayton Powell, Fred Gray, and even Dr. Carter Woodson, the father of Black History Month that NEVER stays on pause.

We might be fun, but can sassy with a brain: Just a reminder yet, Nene Leakes as well as Nicki Minaj appears to be good, but can drive you insane!

When the source of fun is still going, and we are at the peak of success, we summarize also the work of those of that are doing it big, thanks to us being the best. Additionally, those like Wendie Malick, Joy Reid, Dick Van Dyke, Bob Barker, Jane Fonda, Cicely Tyson, JB Smoove, Samuel L. Jackson, Regina Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, Larry Bird, Jennifer Connolly, Rita Moreno, Monique, Jermaine Jackson, Bill Cunningham, Teri Hatcher, Nia Peeples, Judi Dench, Jeffery Wright, Kim Basinger (aka Vicky Vale) and additionally the now 102 year old Kirk Douglas of working and passing that test!

So yes, Sagittarius folks: we should be thankful and still be needed by the work of others with insight, we know it’s love and hate, and still, we must fight. As this poem closes out another Sag year, on to the Holidays, on to 2019, and let’s hit that reset button to our fiery zodiac cause to cheer!

We are the archers with Human Intelligence and Thoroughbred Strength of fire.

Bows and Arrows on lock with insight.

We are indeed representing the ninth house of philosophical Purple elements.

Oh yes, its still Sagittarius Season and with all the news of the weird taking place, I must write another 3-way dance thing here. With the updated mess of high sensitive crap centered around old idioms that didn’t hurt nobody, a familiar Christmas song that seemed innocent and another school official in freaking Nebraska had to get all hypersensitive about teachers can’t display Christmas decors in their classrooms.

Like a centaur and an archer, I’m about to fire up my bows and arrows on this. I’m not messing around. Time to go to work!

First Dance Card: PETA, shut your mouth!

Yeah, I said it. So PETA has a problem with idioms. The very same idioms that many of us grew up hearing and using without any bother to no one. None! Oh let me see what you think is bad for animals:

“Just as it became unacceptable to use racist, homophobic, or ableist language, phrases that trivialize cruelty to animals will vanish as more people begin to appreciate animals for who they are and start ‘bringing home the bagels’ instead of the bacon,”

And this mess you said:

Instead of “kill two birds with one stone” say “feed two birds with one scone,” and instead of “being the guinea pig,” say “be the test tube,”

“Words matter, and as our understanding of social justice evolves, our language evolves along with it,” it added.

And this list you provided is just wacky. Many of you must be drunk!

PETA I have to ask one question: What made you think you can change this around?! Do any of you have any idea what an idiom is? I’m sure many of you probably got that good education from school somewhere. Let me enlighten you on something: The definition of an idiom is this via Dictionary.com:

an expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements, as kick the bucket or hang one’s head, or from the general grammatical rules of a language, as the table round for the round table, and that is not a constituent of a larger expression of like characteristics.

a language, dialect, or style of speaking peculiar to a people.

a construction or expression of one language whose parts correspond to elements in another language but whose total structure or meaning is not matched in the sameway in the second language.

Other Definitions:

the peculiar character or genius of a language.

a distinct style or character, in music, art, etc.:

What you have seen, PETA is 5 definitions of the word called, IDIOM! That is what many of us have been studying in English class way before many of you new generation PETA followers and workers was even thought about. So your so-called feelings of “Grab The BULL by the horns, or skin a cat” really hurts animals?! THAT MUCH?! Personally, nobody really gives a rats carcass what you think! NOBODY! All this crap you displayed here is nothing but attention! I’ll bet many of your followers will fail YOU! Do I say these idioms, yes I do! And I better not see any of your anti-animal saying sentences near me! If I wanted to hear or to say an animal -like idiom that does mean nothing, I’ll hear it! You do not, under any circumstances tell me what to say in the ongoing effort of your so-called treatment in protecting animals. My advice PETA: Grow the HELL up! Folks will continue to use idioms no matter what YOU or anyone else thinks! This is not about abusing animals, it’s a form of English language as many of us OLDER folks know very well. It’s not an attack on animals! Get your life!

Second Dance on the Card: “Baby, It’s cold outside.”

Ok. It’s Christmas time in the city and many radio stations around the country, and you, as well as many others heard the jingles of Christmas Carols. No matter if it’s traditional or the modern upbeat remixes, or yes the remakes that many are redoing like forever. No matter if it’s I’m dreaming of a White Christmas, or Sleigh Ride, Carol of the Bells, or Joy To the World. Good songs, right? Well if those are good songs to listen in all, what’s up with the song that many are banning across the country of Baby, It’s Cold Outside?! It all started at a radio station in Cleveland that some hypersensitive stupid listeners who claim that the song, “Baby it’s Cold Outside” had some strange lyrics, or the male singer didn’t want the woman to leave since it’s cold outside begging her to stay overnight. When I heard that this classic Christmas song from the 1940s is under fire NOW in the era of the Me Too Movement, I beg to wonder, what is the real problem here? What is the real problem of this song being in an uproar that you ALREADY KNOW that there are other genres of music uses crude lyrics and content almost EVERYTIME?! Does Gangsta Rap get a pass talking about B words and Whore words? Even with rock music? Or hell, even the late Miles Davis had a song in his music list called B***ch’s Brew. The late John Elroy Sanford, aka Redd Foxx had a record out called “You Better Wash Your A**” Or some blues artists (not saying many) had lyrics with crude lyrics to make your head spin! Oh, nobody talks about those! But seriously, Baby, it’s cold outside:I had to laugh at these so-called feminists who felt offended about a harmless Christmas song when our parents, grandparents and yet Great Great Grandparents were running the game! And I’ll bet many of the feminists who felt offended had to go full tilt on the song that many don’t understand! And I’ll bet many are younger, Millennial/Generation-Z groups that don’t do their homework. Or just took their version of the #MeToo Movement and threw it in the trash further. Keep in mind, the movement was started by a Black Woman, Tarana Burke. This is why we don’t study! We don’t study, we just assume that a song is bad and the feelings get hurt and don’t take the time to examine the song of what it is the most. Am I a fan of Baby It’s Cold Outside? No. You know what, I would rather play Baby It’s Cold Outside than hearing the mess out of the mouth of our so-called President messing up the country like Scott Walker did to Wisconsin! I would rather listen to that song than all the mush-mouth rap music that will get no play on my playlist for my Birthday. Still: Happy December Birthday Month to Me! I would rather listen to the song than hearing about some fools going into the malls and snag up Air Jordans. If those same folks can get in crazed lines about a pair of sneakers, what would happen if they pack the church on a Sunday? EVERY SUNDAY?! Yeah, I said it! Folks, if you want to play the song, go ahead. Download it to your playlist, no matter which version you like and play the heck out of it! Crank it up. Go postal on it (legally) to listen at your desk for the Christmas Parties. Oh, yes, you will play it at the Christmas Parties full of Ugly Christmas Sweaters, candies, food, drinks, and posting the pics on Social Media. In the words of Paul Heyman, “This is not a prediction, this is a spoiler!” You know it’s gonna happen. Don’t front!

And the third dance on the card: Another attack on Christmas – IN A ELEMENTARY SCHOOL!

Oh, let me count the ways. For a long time, there was and is this “War on Christmas.” This war on Christmas has been about against the Birth of Jesus, and of course, Santa Claus. This so-called stupid war is just that: DUMB! Ok, so not everyone doesn’t follow the Christmas mantra of the Birth of Jesus Christ, the Decorations, Santa Claus, or wearing the ugly Christmas Sweaters or Santa Claus hats. So what.

But in recent news, in Nebraska, there has been this backlash of an elementary school that has been under fire about what the classrooms can display and can’t display due to in their words: “be inclusive and culturally sensitive to all students.” Wow really! Oh, the displays that the classrooms couldn’t set up happened to be candy canes, Santa items like Santa Claus, Christmas Trees, Christmas Music, and Elf on the Shelf. For the candy canes: a mixed concern about Jesus Christ. For all those who haven’t been to a Christmas Church Play in a while, and for those of you have the hate on it, let me enlighten you on something; the Candy Cane thing that many of us hang or will hang on our trees, actually has a shepherd connection. The Candy Cane with the hook represents a staff: a shepherd’s staff. And when you turn the Candy Cane upside down, it represents the letter J – As in Jesus Christ. The Red Stripe curving around the Candy Cane represents the blood of Jesus. Gosh, I’ve known this since those Christmas Plays I’ve been in growing up in Church. As a matter of fact, MANY FOLKS KNOWS ABOUT THIS!

Whether you still like church, or hated it since you left and got woke and conscious, many had to get the message. You can hate all you want, but the fact of the matter is, this is like robbing your kids’ childhood. You are robbing a joy that your kids may not get again all because of a certain ignorance that you developed since many have made the exodus OUT OF CHURCH! The beliefs have stopped. And all the fun that has stopped all because of the lame adults that got mixed up with a “mumbo jumbo propaganda hate mentality”. And oh, this leads to racism, sexism, and any other “ism” that you produced and poisoned the children after they’re BORN! And you wonder, “what’s wrong with the kids?” The fault of the kids’ attitudes is squarely on one particular group of folks: ADULTS! PARENTS! Yeah you so-called grown folks, you are the problem. If we want our kids to change, WE NEED TO CHANGE FIRST! It starts with us and ends with us.

For all of the Sagittarius folks that had a birthday, still celebrating a birthday or will celebrate a birthday, Happy Birthday to all of us. Even happy birthday to me that just went around for the 42nd time on December 5th. You other zodiacs…..it’s not your turn, but you’re welcome to see this with a someone that is a Sagittarius. We still rock the 9th house with that royal purple and arrow glyphs.

How’s the Bows and Arrows holding up Sagittarians? We still aiming? If we are still aiming, keep aiming I have a news to share to talk about a thing called, a breakthrough. When we see a breakthrough or talk about a breakthrough, we are expecting a thing that is totally different than it was in a previous state. We want or need to expect a breakthrough to be better, level up, improve or just making a thing happen for the benefit of us or yourselves. No matter if it’s a new job or the same job. No matter if it’s dealing with a health illness, or being diagnosed with a health illness. No matter if it’s going through money issues, or having a chance to get that money in a way to invest, grow or getting that bonus from work for the holiday season. No matter what it is, the issue of breakthrough must be put on the table to gain that motivation to propel us to the next level!

9th house Brothers and Sisters, yes we want to get the breakthrough factor. We want it so bad that it needs to happen now. But however: It’s not going to happen instantly! Listen, now. In the era of fake news, alternative facts, folks getting all hypersensitive over Christmas Songs or animal idioms (wait until the next pre Christmas blog of my commentary on this), or even rushed Microwave ideas that drive us nuts, we must remind ourselves that we still need to seek the truth, be optimistic and still aim for the real targets that we should be aiming all the time every day!

In the past year, back in February, I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. And the thing is I remember that feeling like many of you who are diabetic like, how has this happened? All those times I should have been going to the doctor getting checked up in all. And yet, I knew that most the time, I have to remember that African-Americans like myself could be at risk for Diabetes if not treated properly by eating the right foods and getting enough cardiovascular exercise 30 minutes a day. Now its been 10 months since my diagnosis and I have seemed to get the hang of it by trying to shoot the target of controlling diabetes every time I go on the treadmill or exercise bike or maybe just walking. And the breakthrough I want in this: I want to have an ability that this diagnosis will NOT STOP ME! Like many before me and with me, that I have things to do. Like getting a good paying job, do my best in what I do mostly and get away with it. Yes, I’m still single with no kids. AT 42! How many 42-year-olds right now can actually say that? Not many. And many are at my current new age that is married, have kids, or have an acquaintance that they trust. I don’t have that special acquaintance on my arm at the moment, but in order for me to have that as an example: there needs to be a “level of trust”. A simple LEVEL of trust! No judgment factors. No assumptions. Just let that person allow me to be me. If I want to go to a Milwaukee Bucks game on my own, I’ll do it. Hey, I just did it on my Birthday and came back in one piece. One the “breakthroughs” that was recently discovered that part of the reasons I explore on my own, is really my introversion. Yes, Sagittarius folks I am an Introvert. Matter of fact, I’m an Introvert Sagittarius, or a December Born Introverted Sagittarius. Found out about that about 3 Christmas holidays ago. And I studied and reviewed and I’m still exploring that voyage about the thought of being an introvert. After all Sagittarians, we all explore like Voyagers, right? It’s in our 9th house DNA to seek out new things and ideas for the better. And take our targets to lock on.

Sagittarians: this is our challenge between now and next year and every day: we need breakthroughs! We need breakthroughs in our daily lives that can be better all the time. Of course, it’s going to take a lot of work and dedication, but as you will hear in the next video from the Quietest Revolution: it can be done!

I got to say something about these tarot card reading videos. Amber Khan takes the tarot readings on a whole new level. For this video: it’s for us 9th House folks. She does a good job breaking it down in summary of what we go through and how to get to that next point for improvement and such. I know it’s a Tarot thing and it’s not a visit to the doctor’s office. But hey, what she said in this has some truths.

“Shoot your Shot!” as she would say.

We need to take our shots, focus more and have the ability to have that “can do mentality” of getting things done no matter what. We can do this. If it’s been on your mind, on your heart or whatever and if it’s been an idea that has clouded you for a long time, and all this time it’s drawing you over and over again in various issues: then it’s time! Many of us now, and as well as when the other Zodiacs take over the baton, we Sag folks need to stay in practice and be ready every time to prepare our bows and arrows when those things happen. The mindset will be a lot clearer and understandable and overall; it will be making a lot of sense!

And even if you fail and bounce back in your craft! Read this next:

This past summer, I had a chance to be a Summer Developer for my church. And the sole purpose was to supposed to gain more insight in our ongoing support of our Veterans. And I had a lot of barriers in the way. Dealing with family members in the hospitals and one of my first cousins being celebrated in death. All this year. And when it came for the evaluation, I was VERY EMBARRASSED. I got my (())# kicked. It was so stupid. And also, we had a guest pastor visiting us and hearing all this and even it was more embarrassing! I didn’t want to talk the next day. Nor I didn’t want to go to church at all that day. My Sagittarian butt should have been at home watching the Packer game. Oh yes, my pastor and I had a talk. And the thing is I busted my butt off what I could do in all to try to make this work. Of all that, in small details, it wasn’t enough. It was mostly a failure and not very good. Warning to us introverts in the church.

A month later, I was invited to a Church Homecoming Anniversary. And I had a thought previously that I should leave my Nikon camera at home in all, but I took it with me. When I got to the church, one of my Wisconsin State Senators, Lena Taylor was visiting and preparing to give the Keynote address. But BEFORE THAT HAPPENED: The Pastor and one of the Youth Reps approached me in greeting, and I told them both that I had no idea that Senator Lena Taylor was going to be here, and my Nikon Camera was in the car. So what is a Sag have to do? I went back to my car, got the camera and took the shots for the church’s homecoming. Even taking pics of the kids reading poems and many others. And even taking pics of my State Senator giving the keynote address. At the end of the night and several nights later, I had to say to myself: “Stephen, that is YOU! That church summer developer thing was crap! From now on, you stay taking pictures. And do what you ALWAYS do best!” And yet being a photo guy or a photographer per se is a Sagittarius Quality, and an Introvert Quality. I was reminded that my late Grandfather (who was not a Sagittarius, but more like a Virgo or Libra) that he once said:

“If are certain things that you can’t handle, leave it alone!”

That quote was introduced to me as a teen in all, BUT now in my 40’s, it’s the realization that there will be things that we will not do properly will be kept alone, and just focus on what we can do and level up better than before. My Sagittarian dudes and girls, that is a prime example of bouncing back. We got recuperative powers to elevate our comebacks! This is part of us that we should know and understand. And just like anything else, if one thing doesn’t work, try the things that can work to elevate your game whatever it might be. If you’re not a classic talker in public, be part of the listening audience that can give you the insight. If a certain job you tried is not working well and it’s new, go back to the old job that really stood you out in the beginning! And yet my Sagittarian blog readers, that will also keep our aims deadlocked!

In conclusion, as I close, that us “half human half horse arrow shooting fire sign on the third scale”:, we are reminded that things will go wrong and we must find a way to work with it. This is the second birthday without my dad since last year, and yes I’m still working on the things that need to be reasonable! We have to do it, and we need to take a chance and go for it. Like the lyrics in Rocky V, “Heart and Fire” – Go for it.

Sagittarius folks: We are rockers! We rock this business and we rock this game. Let’s go forth and continue to show the world and others, and us, who we are, and what we’re all about: A 9th house zodiac that will not die without a fight!

Happy Birthday, Sagittarians! And in the words of the Milwaukee Brewers, the 2018 NL Central Division Champs with Christian Yelich the 2018 NL’s MVP and a December 5th born Sag himself: “LET’S GOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

So: Let’s Go, Sagittarius! We got Arrows and Bows to grind and fight every day!

Everyone knows how this goes yet again. And it’s really simple. No need to link or google or even #Hashtag. Today, many around the country and in the household or other areas, we Americans will be celebrating that holiday of food called Thanksgiving. From the Parades to the NFL Games, Dog Shows, or other new traditional ideas that will boost the food day. And yes, there will be us going out to the clubs and shaking off the pounds to get loose for Christmas. Or staying home for the house parties.

And yes, there will be constant reminders of the horrors that our Native American brothers and sisters will not participate in this Thanksgiving Day due to the killing of their ancestors outside of a church on a Sunday morning many moons ago. Henceforth, The National Day of Mourning. We know this.

But this holiday, yes does have the two words of Be Thankful for the things and ideas we already have. So here in its 11th Anniversary tradition, here is another traditional Stephen’s Spot Thanksgiving Blog of “Be Thankful”. Break out the tablets, Smartphones, PC’s or laptops. Start reading!

If you have a GOOD PAYING job that is good for you and it pays well, be thankful.

If you don’t have a job and still looking and STILL not quitting, be thankful!

If you have good insurance, either health, auto, home or dental STILL be thankful.

If you have a good car or truck that gets you to work every day, and still runs well with or without repair be thankful.

If you FINALLY have a good doctor or you still don’t have one, but still want to get that monkey (and constant NAGGING) off your back, STILL be thankful about improving your health. And STILL trying. Take your time!

Now I need to say this: If you found out that you have a chronic illness like Diabetes, and you had a devastating moment of asking why it happened and didn’t have the words. But also you had conversations and online postings about those who have it already and knows the feelings of the battles, and you learn from them and they can inspire you to be better and get with the program of what they know, and still believe that it’s possible that you control diabetes and not let it get the best of you. In the month of National Diabetes Awareness Month: BE THANKFUL that you have a support system that can back you up. I’m learning that since February 20th this year. And personally, if you read my blog story about me being a now Type 2 Diabetic, I thank you.

If you have a cool dentist and he or she is good and professional, be thankful.

Like any year, if you have lost any loved one this year or years past, and still feel down that the space is empty or the chair is empty, and you want to fill it up with a new generation of family members that want to pull ahead, even close friends, we must try to be thankful to carry on. It’s hard, but we must. I still miss my father, and like last year, my Thanksgiving will be different without him.

If you had folks praying for you all year for all the things you’ve been experienced no matter good or bad, be thankful that there are folks that know, and are in your corner.

If you are expecting a raise in 2019 and will be getting it, be thankful!

Do you still love your gifts and talents that are unappreciated? And still, do them all the time? Be thankful!

If you still got your parents and/or relatives as your back up, be thankful that they still care.

If you had a sibling in the freaking hospital more than once, who is being taken care of and heard good news about coming home, and I know this AGAIN: BE THANKFUL!

If your Mother had a minor surgery done to remove kidney stones, and blood infections, and still be able to eat or move around then some: BE THANKFUL!

Got good neighbors that know you no matter how long? Be thankful.

Met any new neighbors lately? Be thankful.

Moved to a different city recently that you feel is best? Be thankful.

Moved back to a city that is best? Be Thankful.

Got a good plan to get that next step in your career, or a different career, and a mindset? Be thankful.

If you encountered a project or program that really SUCKED MAJOR BALLS and you tried your best, and you had a bad review to feel discouraged in all, but you also realized that there are other things you can do, still be thankful that you can still other things that make you stronger! To hell with the things that don’t work. Stay with the things that can work.

For all of my church folks: if you want your Church to succeed despite those want it to fail due to jealousy, BE THANKFUL that you are willing to fight!

If your birthday or anniversary is coming up or it already happened, be thankful!

If you are STILL very introverted and darn proud of it, and not ashamed to tell about it or embrace it, be thankful!

Single and not in a relationship? Be thankful.

Married with or without kids? Be thankful.

Single and no kids? Be thankful.

Single with kids? Be Thankful.

Divorced? Be thankful.

You still have a church home that you stay and willing to have your kids to grow IN THE CHURCH? Be thankful.

If you have been given a side gig, and love it to be paid with that cash money or checks, no matter what it is, be thankful.

Got a good pet or know a pet that knows you well? Be thankful.

If you STILL give back to your community, your Alumni, your Church, your Scholarship Committees, your Fraternity, your Sorority, your Unions or other groups that have been treating you good all this time, be thankful!

If you have served in your community as an Election Inspector (like me) for 12 years or more and still work, BE THANKFUL!

Wisconsin: If you have voted in this Election and if your favorite actually WON, BE THANKFUL!

If you STILL appreciate the value of your former teachers or coaches, or former principals, of anyone that knew your value of education, be thankful.

If you can’t wait to eat the meal that gives you life, be thankful you can still eat the grub.

Still avoiding fake news? Be thankful. They suck.

If you read the old blogs that I can’t control the reading, but still want to read what I want to say regardless from my black point of view, be thankful! Not just for me, but for you.

If you STILL got stuff in your house that you want to give away, be thankful. Somebody will take it.

Got a good business handy? And it’s good for you to make that money like Uber or Lyft or It Works? Hey, be thankful!

If you switch your career to a new company in the past year or will go to a new company, be thankful!

Own a business? Got your own time schedule? Invested in a product or material? Be thankful.

If you got many reachable sources to give, or to provide, or to share, or to support, and it’s really catching on, you better be thankful!

If you are planning to vote in 2019 and 2020, be thankful! Get your ballots ready.

If you are looking forward to another holiday weekend of fun, be thankful.

If you are NOT shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend Black Friday outdoors in the woods or parks, Be Thankful! It’s a release to avoid a violent backlash.

If you are not shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend your cash at a local business, or on Cyber Monday, be thankful.

If you are donating to your favorite charity on Giving Tuesday, Be thankful!

If you can’t wait to deck your halls for Christmas or Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, AFTER Thanksgiving (some of you did it ahead of time) Be Thankful.

If you criticized Donald Trump for his “horrible so-far job” as President and his tweets, REALLY BE THANKFUL!

If you are breathing right now normally: be thankful.

If you were removed from a company that had you started in the game, then a rift in Management occurred, but went to another company that is good so far, BE THANKFUL!

If many in the black community have black pride PLUS Melanin Responsibility to uplift our black people without sarcasm and forced stuff, BE THANKFUL!

Now I have to say this again: If you kneeled while supported the protest of inhumane acts of people of getting brutalized by the police (as in the NFL Players) and support the idea of waving the flag: your thankfulness is valid because even though many of you supported a kneeling movement in a Colin Kaepernick way. NOTE: It’s not about the Flag or against the military or veterans. It’s about the ongoing concern of black folks getting the wrong treatments of social injustice!

If you are walking tall real good, be thankful.

If you are expecting a really good breakthrough, BE THANKFUL!

If you condemn any racist act on the internet, social media, at your job, or in the house, or in the neighborhood, or any act of disrespect, forced patriotism, and you had to write letters of complaints to a certain company, STILL be always thankful to get your voice heard! Put the pressure on them on not coming back!

If you are upgrading your house to be better, be thankful!

If you got a plan to take a vacation, be thankful.

If you still got your old game systems on a Throwback Thursday and they still work, be thankful!

If you still listen to your old school joints on your radio, or maybe some new school material, be thankful.

NOTE: For my readers that had to go through hell with the wildfires in California, and the Hurricanes out east, and still feeling hopeless. I want you all to understand that it’s a hard Thanksgiving Day for you as we know. But in a sense, you should be thankful that you can rebuild. And BE EXTRA THANKFUL that yet, you are still living! And be EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA THANKFUL that a breakthrough is coming for the better!

If you are a conscious-minded person, a defensive-minded person that you know is best, for your own opinions and viewpoints without any harm or hurtful feelings towards humanity, be thankful!

As of today: I’m thankful that Stephen’s Spot has now reached 1,000 posts! If you read all or some of a few blog posts within the past decade in all: BE THANKFUL! And I thank you for reading! More to come.

For my Sagittarius readers: guess what? Our season is back TODAY on Thanksgiving Day! Are we thankful, now? (SAGS RULE!)

And finally: If I missed anything that many have thought about, and it’s good: we all should be and forever so thankful that we must march on. Like they say at the black funerals: It’s already been said. It’s already done.

Before we Americans throw down on the turkey, yeah there will be political drama at the dinner table. There will be many other factors in which we will ask the question, what are we thankful for in all. It’s also a Thanksgiving that yet the truth will bust out that some of our Ingenious Native American Folks will not partake in the holiday due to the national day of mourning. If you’re not familiar with it, research! Even you might watch football and the ongoing traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ushering the Christmas Season.

But likewise….I’m scratching my head again.

Milwaukee, how’s that streetcar thing doing? Overall, please. No Hop Haters from those who DON’T live in Milwaukee!

So it seems now that the People’s Flag and the Milwaukee Arts Board have to get back in talking about the ongoing idea of getting a new flag. We’ve all have seen it like everyday. But many will agree that the People’s Flag Folks HAVE NOT talked to the whole Milwaukee Community. Why?!

They say that the voting never mattered in the Governor’s race in Wisconsin, mainly Milwaukee. Ummmm, did anyone see the totals while yet folks complained?

Can you be a real church member and bring a level of consciousness that many might fear and still be loyal? Not talking about money in all.

Can the Wisconsin Badgers think big and quietly usher in better talent to run pistol plays? Be advised, Big Ten.

Black Woke Folks: we need to stop all this talk about getting us not to vote. And what is the reason why? Back off! Jeez!

Mostly, in that Georgia Election, the reason why Stacy Abrams lost was due to voter suppression, and I dare say: Racism. Agree or disagree?

Remember when the WWE or the WWF Survivor Series was ON Thanksgiving Day?

What will it take to get the Green Bay Packers to get red hot AGAIN?

You know that Country music has two African-American singers that are killing the scene right now. Like Kane Brown and Jimmie Allen. Heard of them? And Country Music is part of Black History!

Who still goes to the clubs and bars after the big meal on Thanksgiving to shake off the pounds?

How about those Milwaukee Bucks though?

And why did Andrew Gillum lose in Florida again, to really someone who is deemed racist?

Since November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, how really those who love our Military actually SUPPORT our Military? And how many of us really love our Veterans SUPPORT OUR VETS?!! Don’t start illing of not being a fake patriot.

It seems that this portrait in Baraboo sparked an outrage. Of course. But what was the real reason again? Let me guess: that blasted Nazi salute and of course that got Wisconsin in a bad light yet again.

I asked this question last time and I’ll ask it again: The Hallmark Christmas Show is back. Who’s still watching them?!

No offense to the Christmas decors but, why does Thanksgiving get suddenly skipped? I’m mean HELLO! Turkey Day is missing!

This is interesting: Sagittarius Season BEGINS on Thanksgiving Day. Sags: what are we thankful for 9th house rulers?

Remember when Thanksgiving shows actually was reclaiming their time?

Men, has #movember really sunk in? After all that no shave, November thing?

International Men’s Day had come and gone. Why is this day not formally recognized again? And why are the whiny feminists of the world, still treat as this day being sexist?

Speaking of Feminism: why target Kleenex for Mansize tissues again?

Wait a minute: there is a Football Game out the Nintendo Switch? Not Madden! But how do many like the MFL? As in the Mutant Football League? Rated M but this might attract those in the think tanks to actually MAKE A FOOTBALL GAME for the Switch! Madden, or make an “NFL 2K” Sports game. I’m calling this!

Men (and women), can we remind ourselves not to complain about International Men’s Day on International Women’s Day next year in 2019?!!!

When Thanksgiving Day is here: is it Macy’s, Football and Food? or is it Macy’s, Food then FOOTBALL?

When Thanksgiving is over, and for many of us who do not work on a Friday, why is it necessary for those who work on Thanksgiving have to start the Black Friday sales all early?

Speaking of Black Friday: NO SHOPPING FOR ME! But who will be the idiot of the moment when engaging in others for stuff on sale in a violent physical bloodbath? It’s bound to happen. You know it!

Speaking of Small Business Saturday: Who will actually shop locally? No national stuff!

I don’t get it. Since the victory of the recent Wisconsin midterm election, there might be some folks from the black community might call out the new administration of not being diverse enough. My question is: why aren’t many who are complaining (i.e. Facebook and Twitter) not applying?!!

Will Creed II be a hit?

In the last 100 seasons, how many games the Packers won on Thanksgiving? I know, I know. They got archives.

Yes, there was a time that the Native Americans were slaughtered outside after a church service on a Sunday, and years later it was dubbed as the National Day of Mourning. A real question: do many today know that part of the history?

Who might fill up the table that once was occupied by those who passed on?

Who will fill up the table and set a new tone for the big dinner?

And the last question before: how REALLY thankful are you? Like really?